Objectives

Study design

Unmatched case–control.

Methods

Venue-, horse- and rider-related data were collected from the FEI website. Data on weather conditions and terrain were collected at the venue. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to assess risk factors for elimination for lameness and metabolic reasons, respectively.

Conclusions

Reducing the frequency of racing may contribute to decreased risk of elimination for lameness. Competing in deep sand or soil may contribute to exhaustion, leading to elimination for metabolic reasons. Eliminations are likely to be the end result of a complex process, and not every aspect was or can be measured. Further studies with a larger number of horse starts and assessment of variables that could not be measured in this study may identify additional risk factors that can be modified.

Funded by

Supporting Information

Table S1: Outcomes for different distance categories at 24 Fédération Equestre Internationale endurance rides of 80–160 km distance, expressed as the percentage of all horse starts in each distance category. There was a significant association between outcomes and distance categories (P<0.001). n = number of horse starts.

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